mantra

noun

man·​tra ˈmän-trə How to pronounce mantra (audio)
 also  ˈman-,
 or  ˈmən-
: a mystical formula of invocation (see invocation sense 2) or incantation (as in Hinduism)
also : watchword sense 2
"diversity" has become our multicultural mantra Manning Marable
mantric
ˈmän-trik How to pronounce mantra (audio)
 also  ˈman-
 or  ˈmən-
adjective

Examples of mantra in a Sentence

a businessman whose mantra is “bigger is better”
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The Jane bag in buttery pale yellow captures the French cool girl mantra: simple, elevated and effortlessly chic. Angela Lei, Forbes.com, 21 July 2025 If location, location, location is the mantra of the real estate industry, the former Ramada site is a top-shelf realty spot. Charles Selle, Chicago Tribune, 16 July 2025 For decades, the generals at the Pentagon deciding which weapons to buy typically followed one mantra: big, exotic, and expensive. Dexter Filkins, New Yorker, 14 July 2025 In pediatrics, our mantra emphasizes that kids are not little adults. Dr. Katie Lockwood, Boston Herald, 13 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for mantra

Word History

Etymology

Sanskrit, sacred counsel, formula, from manyate he thinks; akin to Latin mens mind — more at mind

First Known Use

1795, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of mantra was in 1795

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Mantra.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/mantra. Accessed 25 Jul. 2025.

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